As the leaves fall and the holidays approach, many people assume the real estate market slows to a halt — but that’s not entirely true. While spring and summer tend to get all the attention, November can actually be a great month for both buyers and sellers, as long as you approach it with the right expectations and strategy.
For Sellers: Less Competition, More Serious Buyers
It’s true that there are fewer homes on the market this time of year — but that’s not a bad thing. With less competition, your home can really stand out. Buyers shopping in November aren’t just browsing; they’re motivated to move before the new year, whether for tax reasons, relocation, or simply to settle in before the holidays.
The key is to price right and make your home as inviting as possible. Warm lighting, cozy staging, and great photos can go a long way in making your home feel like the one. And remember: with fewer listings, even small details (like a freshly painted door or a decluttered kitchen) can make a big difference.
For Buyers: Opportunity in the Off-Season
If you’re buying in November, you might actually find some unique advantages. With fewer competing offers, there’s often more room for negotiation. Sellers who keep their homes on the market through the holidays are usually serious about selling, which can work in your favor when it comes to price, closing costs, or timing.
Plus, seeing homes in colder, darker months can give you a real sense of how they live — how warm the house feels, how the lighting works, how the neighborhood looks in off-season. Those are things you might not notice during a sunny spring open house.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re buying or selling, November can be a surprisingly productive month in real estate. The market might move at a slower pace, but the people in it are more focused and ready to make decisions.
If you’re thinking about making a move before the year ends — or setting yourself up for success in early 2026 — now is a great time to start the conversation.